Nole, the anger and the fan of the dawn. Quarters of nobility against Alcaraz

Character, pride and memories. Novak Djokovic's Australian Open is an emotional storm that spreads. The court erases the first doubts about a Nole who is not in great shape (6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (4) to Jiri Lehecka). Then, when the last ball falls and the 'generational' quarter-final with Alcaraz is taking shape, here is the final blow from the Serbian champion: he refuses the post-match interview with Courier. Why? Because of some unwelcome words from Tony Jones, a journalist for the broadcaster covering the Australian tournament: "Novak is overrated and a former player, eliminate him". And Djokovic explains on his social media: "He made fun of the Serbian fans, also making offensive comments towards me. Since then I have not received an official apology from the broadcaster or the journalist".

Novak was given a chance to let off steam by a long-time fan of his, whom he met twenty years ago in Australia, when the Serb's career was just beginning. The 'carrambata' meeting with the admirer who in 2004 predicted several Slams for him, and even recommended the historic coach Marian Vajda almost brings tears to the eyes of the Serbian ace. Tomorrow, in the quarterfinals It will be a generational challenge between Djokovic and Alcaraz. The Spaniard wants revenge on the Olympic final that saw the Serbian triumph, but was defeated in the final at Wimbledon. Carlitos reached the quarterfinals in Melbourne without too much effort, thanks to Jack Draper's withdrawal. The Spaniard has his sights set on the only Grand Slam title he is missing. The winner of the Djokovic-Alcaraz duel could meet Alexander Zverev in the semifinals. The world number 2 defeated the Frenchman Ugo Humbert, 6-1, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2. Both are looking at the result of Sinner-Rune and Sonego-Tien played before dawn in Italy.

Meanwhile, the double Simone Bolelli - Andrea Vavassori reached the quarterfinals beating Pedro Martinez and Jaume Munar, defeated 6-3 7-6(6) and will now meet the Portuguese Nuno Borges and Francisco Cabral. The Australian Open of Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini ends in the second round beaten by Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider 7-5 7-5 - a repeat of the Olympic final won by the Italians in Paris. Andrea Vavassori, also engaged in the mixed doubles with Sara Errani, loses 6-3 6-4 against the British Olivia Nicholls and Henry Patten.

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